Company Name
ICM Controls
Search Job Title
Quality Manager
Client Profile
ICM Controls is a Syracuse-based manufacturer specializing in precision machine parts, metals, and electronic components. As an industrial operation serving a wide range of applications, the company relies heavily on rigorous quality processes, ISO standards, and cross-functional collaboration across Operations, Development, Purchasing, and Customer-facing teams. The company needed a proven Quality Manager capable of elevating its quality systems and leading a complex quality assurance function.
Role Objectives & Challenges
The primary objective was to bring in a Quality Manager who could improve product consistency, reduce variation, and advance in-process inspections while maintaining strict ISO standards. The company needed someone with deep experience in metals manufacturing, electronics, and industrial operations, along with a strong command of ISO programs and hands-on experience leading audits, implementing corrective actions, and driving productivity improvements.
The major challenge was location. Syracuse offered very little local quality leadership talent with experience in both metals and industrial electronics. The company required a highly specific skill set that typically exists in more established manufacturing hubs. The ideal candidate needed strong analytical capabilities, experience with root-cause analysis, advanced understanding of gauging tools, leadership skills, and the ability to work across operations, development, and customer-facing teams.
Our Approach to Solve the Search
SCM Talent Group began by evaluating the few qualified candidates available locally, but it quickly became clear that a broader radius was needed. The search expanded to regional markets with similar industrial and university-driven talent pools. A regional recruiting strategy targeting comparable manufacturing locations enabled access to candidates who had the precise mix of metals, precision machining, electronics, and ISO experience.
Close collaboration with ICM’s HR Director helped streamline the process, ensure alignment on requirements, and prioritize candidates who not only met the technical demands but could step into a leadership role immediately. Continuous communication allowed for rapid scheduling, timely feedback, and an efficient progression through the interview stages.
The Hire & Results
The search produced a slate of three highly qualified candidates. Despite the initial expectation that relocation would be necessary, the successful hire turned out to be a strong local candidate with exactly the right background.
The individual brought ISO 9000 expertise, precision machining experience, and a deep understanding of metals and electronics manufacturing. Their background aligned directly with the company’s needs, including hands-on work with quality inspection, process documentation, corrective action systems, and cross-functional collaboration.
Working closely with the HR Director ensured a smooth experience for both the client and candidates, allowing the role to be filled in under one month. The result was a fast, efficient search that delivered a highly capable Quality Manager prepared to advance ICM Controls’ quality systems, lead the QA function, and support ongoing operational excellence.
